The United States and Iran have formally brought into force the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding, a landmark agreement brokered by Pakistan that is seen as a major diplomatic breakthrough after months of intensive negotiations and repeated setbacks. The agreement was concluded through electronic signatures by the leadership of the United States and Iran, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signing as mediator. The virtual signing replaced a formal ceremony planned in the resort town of Burgenstock near Zurich, where high-ranking officials from all three countries were expected to attend. Reporting to Express 24/7 from Zurich, senior anchorperson Fahad Husain said preparations for the high-profile event had been completed and advance teams from Pakistan, the US and Iran had already arrived in Switzerland for the ceremony, which was expected to include US Vice President JD Vance, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf and Sharif’s prime minister. However, the leaders ultimately chose to sign the memorandum electronically, which made the planned event unnecessary. Husain emphasized that despite the cancellation of the ceremony, the most important goal had already been achieved.
"The agreement has been signed, entered into force and established a framework for future negotiations between Washington and Tehran," he said. He noted that Pakistan’s role as a mediator has been formally recognized in the document, reflecting Islamabad’s contribution in bringing both sides to the negotiating table. The agreement marks the culmination of a diplomatic process that spanned more than three months and often appeared on the brink of collapse. According to Husain, many observers had believed that the effort would fail, but Pakistan continued to engage in dialogue despite mounting challenges and pressure from multiple sides. He said foreign diplomats and officials in Switzerland have openly acknowledged Pakistan’s efforts, describing the outcome as a result of sustained diplomacy, perseverance and strategic engagement.
